American Cockroaches

What do American cockroaches look like?

American cockroaches are large, reddish-brown insects with six spiny legs, two long antennae, two wings, and two small rear appendages called cerci. The cerci protrude at 45-degree angles on both sides and are typically hidden beneath the wings when viewed from above. Their wings are layered and shiny, catching the light much like other cockroach species.

Adult American cockroaches have a yellow band with two reddish-brown spots on the back, between the head and the wings. This marking resembles a figure-eight shape and matches the coloration on their legs, wings, and bodies. However, this yellow area is often only visible if the cockroach is lying on its back.

American cockroaches are the largest pest roaches commonly found in homes, ranging from 1 to 2 ⅛ inches long.

Nymphs, juvenile roaches, do not have wings. They start out with a yellowish tint, which gradually deepens into the reddish-brown color seen in adults as they mature.

How can I tell the difference between American roaches and other species?

To distinguish American cockroaches from other common roaches, consider the following:

• Size: If the insect is longer than 1½ inches, it’s likely an American cockroach.
• Markings: Look for the yellow band with two brown spots behind the head—often forming a figure-eight shape.
• Wings: American cockroaches have fully developed wings and can fly short distances, especially in warm weather.

Identifying nymphs can be trickier, as they look more similar to other species. If you're unsure, it’s best to consult a pest control professional.

Do American cockroaches fly?

Yes. American cockroaches fly, but they aren’t great fliers. They typically fly from high to lower elevations, using their wings to break their fall. When launching from the ground, they can only fly in short, erratic bursts, rarely rising more than 3 meters in altitude.  

Are American cockroaches dangerous?

American cockroaches are drawn to unsanitary environments and decomposing organic material. They feed on decaying food, trash, insect droppings, and grime from drains and oven sides. This activity exposes them to harmful microorganisms, which they can transfer to surfaces inside your home.

Additionally, cockroach infestations can trigger allergies and asthma—especially in children. Their saliva, droppings, and shed body parts contribute to poor indoor air quality and increased asthma-related hospital visits.

What attracts American cockroaches?

Several conditions can make your property, or the structures on your property, more interesting to American cockroaches. 

• Exterior moisture: American cockroaches are attracted to puddles, wet plants, and leaky plumbing.
• Exterior humidity: They like overwatered landscaping.
• Exterior food sources: They eat decaying foods in trash receptacles, rotting plant matter, and animal waste.
• Interior moisture: They are drawn to bathroom showers, tubs, and sinks, and will readily establish themselves near leaking faucets or moist and damaged wood.
• Interior humidity: They are drawn to bathrooms because of elevated moisture, particularly when ventilation is not used during showers and baths.
• Interior food sources: The diet of an American cockroach is strikingly broad. They eat human food, pet food, decaying food, hair, dust, toothpaste, wallpaper, and more.

Moisture control and increased sanitation are two ways to significantly deter American cockroaches.

Where do American cockroaches hide inside a house?

American cockroaches look for places that are warm, damp, and out of sight. Inside, you’ll often find them in:

• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Laundry areas
• Storage rooms
• Other dark, hidden spots

If you’re checking outside, look under decks, porches, patios, or exterior stairs. They can also hide around trash cans and inside crawl spaces.

How do I get rid of American cockroaches?

If American cockroaches are infesting your home or business, contact Harbor Pest Control for assistance. Since 1948, our local pest control company has been exterminating roaches and are ready to help you! 

How can I prevent an American cockroach infestation?

You may take steps to prevent an American cockroach infestation by first addressing the attractants that we pointed out above. Once you’ve done this, consider these additional tips:

• Replace old weatherstripping or door sweeps.
• Apply caulking material to seal door and window frames.
• Use expanding foam to fill in structural cracks, crevices, gaps, and holes.
• Seal around plumbing underneath kitchen and bathroom sinks.
• Seal gaps in baseboards and door frames.
• Store certain foods in airtight containers.
• Establish a mealtime for your pets and remove bowls after feeding.
• Keep trash cans covered at all times.
• Dispose of indoor trash at least every two days to avoid decaying odors that attract cockroaches.
• Reduce clutter, particularly stacked cardboard or paper.

If you need additional protection or would like to get the highest level of protection, consider a pest control service plan. Ongoing pest management around your exterior will put a pest control barrier in place to deter cockroaches—and many other pests—from entering your home.

‍